What is
Lumbar Sympathetic Block
A lumbar sympathetic block is the injection of a local anesthetic around a group of nerves in your low back (lumbar) area.
Why is a Lumbar Sympathetic Block performed?
A lumbar sympathetic nerve block may be performed if you have Reflex Sympathetic Dystrophy (RSD), Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS), severe peripheral vascular disease or neuropathic pain.
Is there any preparation for this procedure?
No preparation required.
What happens during the procedure?
You will be placed in the prone position (on your stomach, face down) on the table in the fluoroscopy room. Your lower back will be cleansed with an antiseptic solution and sterile drapes will be placed. The area will be numbed with a local anesthetic. The doctor will use fluoroscopy (a special x-ray) to guide the placement of a thin needle to the area of a group of nerves in your lower back. After correct needle placement is confirmed by x-ray, a small amount of local anesthetic will be injected.
How long does the procedure take?
Approximately 30 minutes.
Contraindications for procedure
Bleeding problems, infection, pregnancy or
uncontrolled LOW blood pressure.
